Department of Physics

1. Introduction

Physics, as one of the fundamental sciences, is concerned with the observation, understanding and prediction of natural phenomena and the behavior of man-made systems. It deals with profound questions about the nature of the universe and with some of the most important practical, environmental and technological issues of our time. The scope of Physics is broad and encompasses mathematical and theoretical investigation, experimental observation, computing technique, technological application, material manipulation and information processing. Physics seeks simple explanations of physical phenomena based on universal principles stated in concise and powerful language of mathematics. The principles form a coherent unity, applicable to objects as diverse as DNA molecules, neutron stars, super-fluids, and liquid crystals. Findings in Physics have implications in all walks of life ranging from the way we perceive reality to gadgets of everyday use.

2. Objectives

The BSc Physics curriculum has the following general objectives:

• To provide a broad knowledge and understanding of the basic principles of Physics and the ability to apply that knowledge and understanding to solve physical problems;
• To enable students express their ideas clearly and cogently in both written and verbal form;
• To insure high quality education in Physics within a stimulating and supportive environment committed to excellence in Physics (theoretical, experimental, computational, research and community services);
• To educate students the core of Physics areas at the necessary depth, while they are encouraged to be critically receptive to new ideas and to attain their full academic potential;
• To equip students with a sound base of knowledge and understanding in Physics;
• To expose students to the applications of physical principles in various branches of Physics;
• To support students develop the ability to carry out experimental or/and other investigations, analyze their results critically, draw valid conclusions, and communicate their findings both verbally and in writing;
• To lay the foundations and transferable skills essential for further training and for the development of skills and knowledge;
• To render public consultations in areas closely related to Physics;
• To create an environment that gives students opportunities to develop personal confidence, self-reliance and career aspirations.
• To train students with a basic courses in Physics that will enable them to be academically and professionally qualified to solve physical problems;
• To develop the students ability to work independently and in groups or cooperatively;
• To equip students with necessary confidence, understanding and skills that he/she needs to take up his/her civic responsibilities;
• To enhance the capability of the students to work as professional physicists in industries, research and other institutions/organizations;
• To have enhanced skills in mathematics; problem solving; experimental techniques; scientific report writing; collecting, analyzing and presenting information; use of information technology and self-education;

3. Graduate Profile

The Physics graduates are expected to acquire problem solving and abstract thinking skills. This makes Physics graduates very desirable employees in a wide variety of areas like Education, Research, Medicine, Consulting, Defense, Industry, and Journalism and other governmental and non-governmental organizations. These fundamental skills as well as training in practical subjects such as optics, lasers, computer interfacing, image processing, geophysical and space exploration, weather forecasting and electronics also make them very desirable employees in high tech companies, industries and research centers.

Having completed a BSc curriculum in Physics, students should be able to:

• have a solid knowledge and understanding of modern and classical Physics; along with the associated mathematics and experimental techniques to become instructors at educational institutions;
• have preparedness to undertake a postgraduate program in Physics and other related multidisciplinary postgraduate programs that require BSc in Physics;
• have the capability to work as professional physicists in scientific research; Physics-related careers in industry, public service or the media;
• be prepared to enter a wide range of professional careers that require and values the analytical, mathematical and computational skills of a well-trained Physics graduate;
• have acquired an insight into, and have practice in basic methods of independent research;
• have developed the following discipline-specific skills:
• investigative skills, to design, carry out, analyze and evaluate experiments;
• experimental skills, to use equipment safely; carry out measurements withdesired degree of accuracy in laboratories;
• mathematical skills appropriate to the subject;
• readiness to be trained in specific professions like Physics teaching, Physics curriculum design and implementation
• have developed the following transferable skills:
• information retrieval skills, to gather and extract relevant information from books, journals and other data sources;
• information technology skills, to collect, order, analyze and present data using computers and other electronic systems;
• interpersonal skills, to communicate effectively with others, both in writing and orally, and to work as part of a team;
• the ability to work independently and organize work to meet desired requirements;
• in developing local technologies and adapting technologies for local needs;

4. Teaching-Learning Methods

Method of Teaching:

Presentation of courses is through lectures, tutorials, self-study (project works), problem solving, class and group discussions, assignments, laboratory demonstrations and hands-on exercises as well as quizzes and tests to insure continuous assessment and student/learner centered approach.

Attendance Policy:

Regular, punctual class attendance is essential for the satisfactory completion of a course. Each student is expected to attend all sessions, complete all assigned work, and take all examinations.

Assessment:

Assignments, report, end-of-semester examinations, dissertations, projects, etc. with their percentage contribution to the final assessment will be provided by the instructor with a course outline (which will be available to students before the course begins).